Ruby Dixon is one real queen! The chemistry between Aspeth and Hawk is palpable, filled with moments of sass, warmth, humor, and emotional depth. The author's vivid descriptions has me live vicariously through these characters.

Ruby Dixon has this quality about their writing that pulls you in. When I read the synopsis on this book I was intrigued (who wouldn't be, a trad publishing deal for the author of ice planet??) but not sure if this would be for me. What you will find in this book:
-Found family (which is adorable, our little band of misfits will melt your heart)
-Marriage of convenience- literally one of the best tropes out there
-Omega verse- yes you read that write, it extends to minotaurs now- why? Because Ruby said so.
Overall I enjoyed it, the world building was very well done- there were some things that I got a little lost in, but I found my way through. I really like the idea of a fantasy spin on archaeological work. I am excited to see how it expands throughout the series, which characters it follows and such, I do hope that we see Aspeth again. One thing to note, if you are new to the Ruby Dixon verse, this novel is quite steamy and it is definitely monster sex. For those of us who liked the ice planet barbarians series, you'll be fine, but please just make sure you know what you are going into!
Overall, great vibes- fun storyline and I will see you all back here in October :)

This was a charming romp with a few plot holes and several truly very smart moments--the bit about Aspeth's desire to keep her morality vs . live was, I felt, a particularly effective note. Also, more authors should have characters who don't have their whole plan figured out yet. It made sense in the plot and stopped things from feeling too convoluted when it didn't serve.

I love Ruby Dixon and anything they write. This was no different. Great world, great spice, great drama. 10/10

Aspeth (FMC) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
daughter of nobility, hoping to help her family out financially. Has a pet cat named Squeaker and a maid that is her best friend named Gwenna.

Hawk (MMC) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Minotaur, teacher. Has a tail 🫣 About to go into rut, wants to connect with a female.

The Bull Moon Rising story begins with a lot of back history to explain The Royal Artifactual Guild, which Aspeth is hoping to join to help out her family.

There are a lot of terms, people, and places that I did not really understand. Maybe further in into the series things will start to make sense.

I enjoyed the Ice Planet series and am hoping for good things out of these stories as well!!

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title!

I absolutely love Ruby Dixon. I will say that this one was a little slow for me on the actual romance portion of the book.